Dendrobium Leaf Drop & Blotchy Leaves
 

My Dendrobium Yellow Chinsai 'Little Joe' was growing quite well until late-summer with lots of new growth and green leaves. Over a short period, I noticed numerous black leaf spots followed shortly thereafter by leaf drop. I suspected fungus, and treated with Photon 20 Situation seemed to improve, though I'm not convinced all is well.

With the arrival of cooler weather, I cut back watering as I normally do with this orchid, but even a small amount of water every few weeks cause massive leaf drops. I'm clearly not this orchid's best friend.

Help appreciated.

David, it's normal for them to drop leaves this time of year, don't worry about any black spotting as long as it's confined to leaves and doesn't spread to the pseudobulbs. The watering is likely not causing the leaf drop, rather it's usually the opposite (increased dryness) that causes this. Your plant really looks fine to me, in fact very healthy. If you haven't seen this one bloom yet get ready for a treat later in the winter/spring!

--Nat

Thanks Nat. I've seen it bloom numerous times; you're right, it's spectacular. I'm still concerned a bit about the blotchy leaves. Something's not right. Look closer at the leaves and you'll see what I mean.

I think the blotching could just be part of it's process of losing it's leaves... and f.y.i....not all Dendrobiums loose their leaves, but this looks to be one that does, do you know what it is?

Yes, it is Dendrobium Yellow Chinsai 'Little Joe'. I have had it for 3+ years. It always loses leaves if it gets cold, or if I water during winter, otherwise, no problem, keep dry and it blooms. This year I'm fairly certain it had a fungal problem at one point, now the leaves look unhealthy to me.

David, from what I have read on Orchid Wiz, the parents of Den. Yellow Chinsai do need a winter rest, but not a completely dry winter rest, not sure if maybe this has something to do with the leaves of the plants, maybe they are stressed? Also, have you checked the roots lately? The leaves could be an indicator that something is wrong with the root system. Just trying to come up with idea's is all, not saying that what I have mentioned is necessarily what is going on with your 'chid.

well, the orchid hung on all summer, with little or no water and even bloomed this fall with a magnificent display but the fungus would not be defeated. With the resumption of regular watering this spring, the fungus was back, (it never really left) and no amount of anti-fungal treatments would defeat the infection. Finally, last week, I tossed the orchid and bought another.